The 2025 Voices of the Diné: Bridging Science, Culture, and Community in Genetic Research Summit served as a crucial meeting ground for scientists, community, students and Indigenous leaders committed to shaping the future of genetic education within Native communities. Held at Northern Arizona University, the summit tackled complex discussions on education, ethics and policy development, particularly in light of the Navajo Nation’s long-standing moratorium on genetic research.
As scientific advancements offer new potential for improving Indigenous health, leaders and researchers explored ways to balance these opportunities with cultural values and ethical safeguards. The summit provided a space for thoughtful dialogue on how genetic research can empower rather than exploit tribal communities, ensuring that data governance and informed consent remain at the forefront.
Summit organizers included University of Colorado School of Medicine members, Katrina Claw, PhD, associate professor of biomedical informatics, Kyle Coulon, Lucas Rozell, and Carissa Sherman. Other organizers included Nanibaa' Garrison (University of California, Los Angeles), Jani Ingram (Northern Arizona University), Tia Gramzinski (Northern Arizona University), Gilbert John (Colorado State University), Ursula Knoki-Wilson, Mae-Gilene Begay, Carmenlita Chief, and Luke Nez (University of California, Los Angeles). The summit was sponsored by a Navajo NARCH Partnership pilot grant (Drs. Claw and Garrison) and an R13 conference grant (Claw), among other sponsorships.
To learn more about the conference, you can read the article, Voices of the Diné Summit Spotlights Genetic Research and Indigenous Health, published in the Diné College Newsletter on Friday, May 29, 2025.
Warm smiles from Carissa Sherman (Left) and Leah Nez(Right) welcomed guests to the Community Conversations on Genetics Workshop, held the day before the conference started.
Participants delved into meaningful dialogue on the future of genetic research in Navajo communities during the Community Conversation on Genetics Workshop, organizedby the group featured above. Top row (left to right): Walter Phelps, Luke Nez, Justin Reedy, Carissa Sherman. Bottom row (left to right): Leah Nez, Lucas Rozell, Nanibaa’ Garrison, Dalaki Livingston, Mae-Gilene Begay, Katrina Claw.
The Summit featured the educational products that had been created by the Navajo Native American Research Centers for Health (NARCH) pilot grant (awarded to Drs. Claw and Garrison). Each guest was given a copy of the newly published book, Glossary of Genomic Terminology in the Navajo Language, and was signed by co-authors and cover artist (Left to right: Rene Begay, Mallery Quetawki, Susie John, Perry Charley, Martha Austin-Garrison, missing Frank Morgan). Other speakers included were from the Navajo Nation, research programs working with Diné people, and the National Institutes of Health. Attendees also heard stories from patients and their advocates, discussed the impacts of the moratorium on genetic research on the Navajo Nation, and learned about advancements and changes in science and policy.
Attendees spent two days gaining the skills to lead with cultural integrity and scientific insight. Photo of Dalaki Livingston showcasing his tsiyééł (hair bun).
With wisdom and reverence, Delegate Helena Begay, member of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, opened the summit, grounding the event in tradition and purpose.
Guests received tote bags (artwork created by Zuni artist Mallery Quetawki and tote prints by Shawndeana Smith) filled with educational resources that featured culturally and scientifically relevant Native artwork.
Because every summit needs a selfie! Leah Nez (Left) and Katrina Claw (Right) captured the joy of connection and community.
The front and back cover of the Glossary of Genomic Terminology were recreated in the Navajo Language by Zuni artist Mallery Quetawki. These pieces helped bring beauty, history and identity to every corner of the summit.
Researchers participated in a poster session, showcasing their work, featured below.
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